Hinduism

Chapter2— Kena Upanishad

◆ About this chapter

The Kena Upanishad stands as a pivotal text within the principal Upanishads, exploring the metaphysical relationship between the individual self and the ultimate reality, Brahman. Through a dialogue between gods and a sage, the chapter elucidates the concept that Brahman is the transcendent agent behind all sensory and mental faculties, rather than the deities themselves. This inquiry serves to refine the reader's understanding of divine immanence and transcendence within the broader Vedic tradition.

Translation:

About this translation

King James Version (1611)

1611 · Public domain

The most influential English translation ever made. Sometimes archaic, but the standard PD English text.

Translators commissioned by King James I of England, 1604–1611

By whom commanded does the mind alight on its objects? By whom directed does the first breath go forth? By whom urged do men speak this speech? What god directs the eye and the ear? ²That which is not expressed by speech, but by which speech is expressed: know that to be Brahman, not this which people here worship. ³That which is not thought by the mind, but by which, they say, the mind is thought: know that to be Brahman, not this which people here worship. ⁴That which is not seen by the eye, but by which the eye is seen: know that to be Brahman, not this which people here worship. ⁵That which is not heard by the ear, but by which the ear is heard: know that to be Brahman, not this which people here worship. ⁶That which is not smelled by the nose, but by which the nose smells: know that to be Brahman, not this which people here worship. ⁷He who knows it as not known by the senses, but as the knower of the senses, knows Brahman. He who knows it as not known by the mind, but as the knower of the mind, knows Brahman. ⁸He who knows it as not known by the breath, but as the knower of the breath, knows Brahman. He who knows it as not known by the eye, but as the knower of the eye, knows Brahman.

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Chapter Discussion

Discussion

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What in this chapter surprised you, or stopped you?
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